Amid Surge of Travelers During Holy Week, Airport Officials Conduct NAIA Inspection

By Bing Jabadan – TheNationweek.com

April 15, 2025

MANILA, Philippines – In a concerted effort to optimize passenger processing during the high-traffic Holy Week travel period, Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon and Immigration Commissioner Joel Viado undertook a thorough inspection of immigration facilities at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 3 today.

The move came as the airport braced for a surge in the number of travelers during the Holy Week season.

Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA) General Manager Eric Ines joined Dizon and Viado during the inspection.

Airport authorities project a daily influx of about 150,000 passengers at the peak of the Holy Week break.

‘Tanim Bala’ Resurgence

But as overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) prepare for their return home, apprehension looms over their safety at NAIA with the alleged resurgence of the infamous “tanim-bala,” or bullet-planting scam.

A message shared on social media by the Buhay OFW group encapsulates the widespread anxiety:

“Dear NAIA,

We are returning home this year. Please refrain from planting bullets in our luggage. We are domestic helpers, not criminals. Our instruments are brooms and mops, not firearms. Please perform your duties with integrity,” the post read.

Amid the renewed threat, travelers are now taking precautionary measures such as wrapping their luggage in cling film to protect themselves against potential extortion.

The alarming tactic, which involves covertly placing bullet casings in passengers’ bags to solicit bribes for their release, has once again come under public scrutiny following a widely reported incident.

To enhance the travel experience, the Department of Transportation and the MIAA have established passenger assistance desks across Terminals 1, 2, and 3, ensuring that all travelers receive the necessary support for a seamless journey.